These peculiarities make leather a material that fits naturally within the framework of the circular economy. In this context, another typical element of leather should be emphasized, that is its greater durability compared to the other materials with which products are generally made.

The circularity of leather and its inimitable organoleptic characteristics make it the object of a misappropriation, sometimes fraudulent, of its denomination by alternative materials. Think of the terms eco-leather, vegan leather and many others related to materials that have nothing to do with actual leather.

For this reason, the approval of Legislative Decree no. 68 of 9 June 2020 is a fundamental result for the industry, which, in order to protect the consumer, establishes provisions for the correct use of the term "leather" and a sanction system for those who use it improperly, sometimes fraudulently.

It can only be used refer to an animal skin or hide that has retained its original fibrous structure and has been tanned so that it will be preserved over time.

7.2.1 THE CIRCULAR SUPPLY CHAIN OF LEATHER

Legend

water effluents waste products productive activities main processes sub-processes slaughter animals, milk and cheese breeding raw hides slaughterhouse human nutrition chemicals reclaimed chromium tanning liquids calcination process ground or aqueduct water

Fleshings, splittings and rags collagen and jellies food industry recovery/ hydrolysis plant tanning process shavings and trimmings finished leathers process fertilizers and biostimulants other industries (pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, construction) manufacturers consumers energy sludge sewage treatment plants agriculture additives for the construction industry chromium recovery plant landfill